Kerala Percussion Arts Classes (Gurukulam)
Kalavadhyam Academy For Arts & Cultures
We teach Kerala temple percussion arts the traditional way with hands-on practice, real stage performances, and classes for all ages both in Bengaluru and online.
Pricing Guide
Weekend Chenda Melam Group Training
Core Schedule & Curriculum
- 4 Sunday sessions per month.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours per session.
- Progression: Saadhakam (wrist exercises) to Panchari and Pandi Melam.
- Group instruction led by Master Teacher and senior assistants.
Equipment Access
- Practice blocks (Stone/Wood) provided during class.
- Tamarind wood sticks provided for initial trial classes.
- Access to actual Chenda drums granted after 3 to 6 months of block practice.
Class Requirements
- Location: Non-AC community halls or temple grounds.
- Attire: Traditional Mundu/Set Saree required for specific sessions.
- Arangettam (debut) performance eligibility (logistics charged separately).
Virtual Chenda Classes (Live & Self-Paced)
Digital Format
- 8 live interactive sessions per month (bi-weekly schedule).
- Access to library with pre-recorded breakdown videos of Ganapathi Kai and rhythm cycles.
- 1-on-1 doubt clearing slots (10 to 15 mins per month) for posture correction.
Certification & Setup
- Digital completion certificates after clearing specific levels.
- Guidance on setting up home practice rigs using hard surfaces or rubber pads.
Specialized Temple Instruments (Edakka / Kuzhal)
Stream Options
- Choice of one stream: Sopana Sangeetham (Vocals + Edakka), Kurum Kuzhal (Wind), or Ilathaalam (Cymbals).
- Small batch size (3 to 8 students) for higher individual attention.
- Includes vocal style training (Tyagani) for Sopana Sangeetham students.
Operational Details
- Weekly sessions lasting 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Focus on Thalavattam (rhythm circles) and ensemble role.
- Students must purchase their own instruments early in the curriculum.
About Kerala Percussion Arts Classes (Gurukulam)
Tradition Lives Here
At Kalavadhyam, this isn't just an artists group - it's a family. I believe our duty is to keep thanathaya kshethra vadyakalakal (authentic temple percussion arts) alive in Bengaluru, and to make sure it reaches the next generation. "Live The Tradition | Live The Culture" is not just a motto, it's our way of life.
What You’ll Learn
- Chenda: You'll get hands-on with the big stuff - Panchari, Pandi, Chembada melams. The Chenda’s sound? Pure simha garjjanam (lion’s roar).
- Ilathaalam: Learn the cymbals that set off those intricate rhythms.
- Kurum Kuzhal & Kombu: The wind instruments that bring melody into the mix.
- Sopana Sangeetham with Edakka: Dive into devotional music and the subtle Edakka drum.
- Maddhalam & Thimila: Classes for these core Panchavadhyam instruments too.
The Gurukulam Way
You start slow. No shortcuts. First is Saadhakam (practice) on stone blocks, not the drum - this is how you build real rhythm and discipline. Once you’re ready, your Arangettam (first stage performance) happens at places like Kollur Mookambika Temple. Our students, even kids, get real chances to perform at temple festivals and our academy events.
Classes & Batches
- Weekend classes at our Kalari locations in Bengaluru (Ramamurthy Nagar, Sarjapur Road, Vidyaranyapura, Mysore Road).
- Online Kerala percussion lessons for those who can’t make it in person. Self-paced or live, even one-on-one if you need.
- Anyone above 7 can join. We have exclusive batches for ladies too - safe, welcoming, and encouraging.
If you have a passion for Kerala temple percussion, you'll fit right in here.
Meet your Expert
Kalavadhyam
My Story
Namaskaram, we are Kalavadhyam. For us, this is not just a group, it’s a gurukulam, a family. We started in Bangalore with just oru cheriya spark (a small spark) to keep Kerala’s chenda alive here. Now, 800+ students, some even performing at Thrissur Pooram and big temples. Our hearts swell seeing our 'sthree saannidhyam' (female presence) on stage. Tradition is our backbone, guided by legendary aashans. Kalavaadyathinte paarambaryam (our tradition) will live through our next gen. Culture, tradition, that’s us.
My Work
Performances & Classes - We perform Chenda Melam, Panchavadhyam for festivals and run Kalavadhyam Academy. Classes for chenda, ilathaalam, more.
Traditional Kerala Percussion Training - Our shyli is pure classical. Classes follow kshethra style, shaastriya shyli, keeping it real.
Inclusive Learning - Anyone above 7 can join. We have exclusive ladies chenda batch and welcome all with passion.
Expert Gurus - Learn from Gurunaadhan Shri Dheeraj Edat and visiting legends. Knowledge passed down directly.
Online Chenda Melam Classes - Can’t come to Bangalore? Join our Kalavadhyam Gurukulam online platform. Learn from anywhere.
